How to Find Good Pieces at Low-End Thrifts

 How to Find Good Pieces at Low-End Thrifts

Low end thrift stores can be pretty overwhelming. There's no aesthetic choice usually, things are cramped on the racks, and the lighting is harsh. However, hidden amongst those wacky aisles are some actual gems you just have to know where to look. Here's how to spot quality pieces, even when everything around you is chaotic and so not cool. 

1. Feel the Fabric

You don't always have to judge things by appearance, touch everything. Quality fabric looks and feels different. Natural materials such as 100% cotton, linen, silk, and wool usually hold up longer in the long term and usually have a thicker, softer feel compared to synthetic fibers. If a thing feels robust and smooth instead of thin and plasticky, it's well worth a closer look. You can also reverse tags and check fabric content, clothing from earlier decades were made with better materials and stronger stitching across the board.

2. Check the Stitching

Poor stitching is a giveaway that something wasn't built to last. Inspect the inside seams ask yourself, Are the stitches even, tight, and neat? Is the hem unraveling? Double stitch or French seams are usually signs of better quality. You can also tug lightly on stress points like the underarms or side seams to see if it holds up.

3. Look for Vintage Labels

Old tags are more likely to show better craftsmanship. If the logo or font looks old-fashioned, or if the tag contains something like "Made in USA," "WPL," or "Union Made," you may be holding a true vintage article of clothing. These were usually made before fast fashion was a thing, so the quality is much better than modern clothing.

4. Weight 

Heavier does not always mean better, but in a thrift store, it's a great sign. A heavier denim jacket, a heavy knit sweater, or a lined blazer generally means that it was constructed to last. When comparing two similar items if one is heavier, it's probably of better quality.

5. Check Hardware and Buttons

Plastic buttons and cheap zippers are usually the sign of fast fashion. Better-made items will have metal zippers, custom or printed buttons, and maybe even some spare buttons stitched in. If the details look thoughtful and well-made, the item probably is too.

6. Trust Your Gut

Sometimes you just know. If it looks well made, old-school, and still in great shape after being given away—it's probably a well-made piece. Style can be unique to everyone, but craftsmanship can't lie. And once you've learned to recognize it, hunting for gems comes naturally and you'll forever avoid cheap garments.

Don't be discouraged by a bad fit or small flaw, most high-quality pieces only need a little tailoring or TLC. Remember that the key to thrifting for your budget is patience, experience, and being willing not to be deterred by digging through items you may not find so desirable.